Domaine Artefact, South Coast (San Diego County, California) “Rincon del Diablo” 2021 ($58)

Rincon del Diablo is the winery’s Syrah forward blend. It is very complex on the nose and in the mouth, with a dash of smoky character deepening rich black fruit, pepper, damp earth and saddle. It’s just beginning to show itself and should continue to unwind beautifully for the next five years and hold another five after that. Winemaker Mark Robinson calls this a “one-off” for the bottling due to the heavier than usual oak toast level, but it works well here. Contains 70% Syrah, 16% Grenache, 8% Petite Sirah and 6% Counoise.
93 Rich Cook